Using the Rare Books collection
Finding rare books
Most rare books are listed in our catalogue, but some might be uncatalogued or available in another format microform or online. Before you visit, check the catalogue or Ask a Librarian.
To help preserve originals, you may be asked to use an alternative version.
Tip: Look for call numbers starting with 'RB' — many rare books are classified this way.
Accessing rare books
To view rare books, you must be a registered reader with a Library card.
- Log in to the catalogue with your Library card.
- Submit an online request.
- Collect your item from the Special Collections Reading Room desk. Items are held for 7 days.
- Show your National Library card and proof of identity.
Rare books are for in-room use only and cannot be taken out of the reading room.
Delivery and preparation time
Some collection items are not fully arranged or described and need extra time to be prepared before they can be used. For more information, review our collection delivery times.
Handling rare books
Handle all rare books with care to help preserve them for future use. We provide:
- Gloves for handling some pre-1901 materials
- Book cradles to support fragile or damaged spines
- Book weights to hold open tightly bound books
- Pencils for taking notes, please don’t use pens
Order or copy items
To protect fragile and rare materials, photocopying isn’t allowed for:
- rare books
- many items from Formed Collections
- materials published before 1901
Where copying is allowed, you can:
- Use Copies Direct to request photocopies or digital images online
- Take your own photos (no flash) with staff approval
Copyright and publishing
Modern rare books and facsimiles are protected under the Copyright Act. You must notify us if you intend to publish material.
Citing items
To ensure the correct citing of items obtained from the library, please review
Contact us
To submit enquiry about rare books, use our service Ask a Librarian.
Rare Books in the collection.
Rare Books in the collection.
